Stats

Volunteering takes up our time, energy, and sometimes, money. It can be hard work.
It can find us doing and seeing new things, which can be challenging and even a little
scary. So why does anyone even go there?

Well, here's a reason:

Volunteering is good for others. The world is not a perfect place, and many people, animals, places,
and communities, need help. Governments and professionals try to meet everyone's needs, but it's impossible
for them to do it all.

This is why people become volunteers: because they can make a difference where someone
or something needs help. If people never help each other and only care about themselves, the
world becomes a crueler, sadder place. But when we volunteer our time, money, or talents, we
help make our planet a better, happier home where people work together to make life easier for all.

Volunteers and volunteer groups can:

Bring food to hungry people

Find homes or clothes for those who need them

Make neighborhoods safer and more beautiful

Protect wildlife and natural areas

Help care for pets and other animals

Bring comfort and happiness to lonely people

Care for people who are sick, or help find cures for diseases

Help people learn to read or do better in school

Need another reason? How about this one:

Volunteering is good for YOU

Are you thinking, "What's in it for me?" The answer is, plenty! Here are some of the things you
might get in return for your giving:

Making new friends

Gaining important skills and experience that will help you later in life

Making connections that can lead to a job or career

Building confidence and self-esteem

Exploring what you want to do with your life

Feeling needed and important

Feeling satisfaction at getting things done and helping others

Meeting people who could be role models

Using your mind, body, and creativity

Getting active and healthier

Relieving stress

Fighting boredom

Spending time doing what you really care about

Gaining an edge on getting into college

Feeling like you're part of a community

Having fun!

Hey...it looks like being a volunteer gives as much good stuff to you as it does to the people,
places, or animals you're trying to help! That's the secret of volunteering. People who become
volunteers usually lead richer, happier, and more satisfying lives than those who don't volunteer.

Look at the statistics for our program for 2017 and see the importance of volunteering: